One week after the Katy Elks lodge hosted its annual free throw “Hoop Shoot”, two of the six winners who had advanced to District competition are now on their way to State to vie for the next level contest, Regional. Any who survive these two rounds will be Nationals bound in Springfield, MA this summer.
Macy Ray, winner in the 12-13 girls category, and Bennett Hanks, 8-9 boys winner, will be representing the Gulf Coast Disrtict this week-end in Dallas. This is Bennett’s first trip to State while Macy will be enjoying her third time there. Last year Macy advanced to National competition where she placed fourth. Katy has always provided strong competition to other Elks Lodges in the “Hoop Shoot” scholarship program.
Rick McCool, along with his wife Shirley, have spear-headed the local “Hoop Shoot” for over 30 years, a number of which Rick has also served as District chair. This will be their final year to direct any “Hoop Shoot” activities since Rick has chosen to “retire.”
Knowing Rick, he will still be available to help but he is turning the local and district chairs over to Dan Tass, along with the help of his wife Gail, to direct the winning tradition that has been set by Katy area youth and the Katy Elks Lodge.
Caption: Bennet Hanks, Boys’ 8-9 yr. old winner; Rick McCool, District Director of “Hoop Shoot”; Macy Ray, Girls’ 12-13 yr. old winner